breastfeeding

When I run into paleo skeptics, here is one of the techniques I use.

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Paleo Skeptic: But really, who's to say there's an ideal type of human diet?  And haven't we adapted to a more modern diet?

JLD: Let me ask you a question.  What is the healthiest thing to feed infants?

Paleo Skeptic: Uh, breast milk.

JLD: Why?

Paleo Skeptic: Well, because that's what's natural.

JLD:  What do you mean by natural?

Paleo Skeptic: I mean, it's what mammals do.  It's what infants are adapted to.  It's what we've done for millions of years.

JLD: Fine, but we've evolved since then -- and we've developed a sophisticated technology called infant formula.

Paleo Skeptic: Yes, but it hasn't been long enough.  And infant formula isn't as good as the real stuff.  Maybe one day we'll develop a formula that is, but we're not there yet.  And there's a lot of research that suggests that breastfeeding infants is good for the long-term health of the baby.

JLD: It sounds like you already believe in the general paleo approach, just for a limited window of life.

Paleo Skeptic: ...

JLD: Right?

Paleo Skeptic: Hey, I just met you, and this is crazy.  But here's my number.  So call me maybe.

This example, as described, isn't a scientific argument by any means.  It's just a talking point.

Keeping that in mind, my point is that there are a number of ways in which many people already believe in this general approach, they just don't call it paleo.  Or they use the same lines of reasoning to justify an organic farmer diet.  So just find a way to re-frame their existing beliefs in a new light.  That way, they don't have to change their belief system -- something which few people ever do.

Finally, a reason to write a post about Gisele.  Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen has been stirring up controversy -- in a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar, Gisele spoke about being a new mother, and made a strong statement in favor of breastfeeding:

"Some people [in the United States] think they don't have to breastfeed, and I think 'Are you going to give chemical food to your child when they are so little?' I think there should be a worldwide law, in my opinion, that mothers should breastfeed their babies for six months."

Apparently, the "worldwide law" piece struck some women as a bit smug coming from a wealthy supermodel.

My reaction?  Puh-lease.  Here are 10 reasons why Gisele is in the right.

• First, as Gisele clarified on her blog, she wasn't making a point about the law.  She was emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding and the strength of her belief.   
• Second, she's absolutely right that breastfeeding is important, that more women should breastfeed their children, and breastfeed for longer.  (And yes, I said that. And I'm a man. Without any children. Boo ya!)  Just because it may be easier for Giselle to breastfeed than some women, it doesn't mean it's not a worthy goal.
• Third, it's not as if every other celebrity doesn't sound off about, say, environmental issues every day -- but in that situation, they are actually advocating global laws (e.g., the Kyoto Protocol) to force people to behave a certain way.  So for consistency's sake, I hope you accuse every green-in-the-face celebrity for unmerited opinions and general smugness.
• Fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth are attached below (with captions). 

Now that I have found a way to post about Gisele (and her breasts), I've accomplished all of the goals I had for this blog.  So I will be shutting down the site.  Thank you for coming.